Escal-Vigor

by Georges Eekhoud

"Escal-Vigor" by Georges Eekhoud is a novel published in 1899. Set in a Belgian village, it tells the story of wealthy Count Henry de Kehlmark and his relationship with Guidon Govaertz, a young shepherd rejected by his family. Their bond challenges the deeply rooted prejudices of their community. As one of the first modern novels to explore love between men, this groundbreaking work sparked scandal and led to its author's prosecution, though prominent writers rallied to his defense.